Three make 0800 calls free on new SIM-only plans

Three will give new SIM-only customers free calls to 0800 numbers as part of their new SIM-only plans, but the offer will not include existing SIM only tariffs.

Customers who take out a new sim only deal or switch to one of the new tariffs will be also get calls to 084 and 087 numbers for 5p per minute. They will also have access to a number of spending tools which will allow customers to set limits to stop customers from exceeding their allowances.

Three said the new features are aimed at allowing customers to enjoy using their phones without fears of bill shock. The new deals also make it easier for consumers to change plans, in case they need a greater allowance.

Tom Malleschitz, Three’s marketing director, said: “People want choice and control so that they are able to enjoy their devices without worrying about bill shock. These SIM-only plans give them exactly that.”

The Advertising Standards Authority recently banned a Three advert after it adjudged the TV ad had misleadingly advertised “free” 0800. The 11 complainants argued that Three’s did not adequately explain that the free calls only applied to new connections.

The ASA stated that the ad contained “ambiguous and contradictory messages” and did not clearly outline the extent of the commitment to consumers, breaching the ASA code.

The changes to 0800 charges follow an Ofcom ruling that will see all calls to 0800 numbers from mobiles become free by June 2015. Ofcom will also introduce caps on premium rate calls.